What's the differnce between an awl and a punch?

[Cyber4499]

People suggest using an awl to mark the hole you are drilling to stop the bit from slipping.
But I cant seem to find an awl so I was wondering if a punch (without hammering) could manually do the same thing. Does anyone know the difference and whether an awl or punch is better?

Thank you.

 

[Cagey]

"Awl!" is what you say when you find people double/triple posting. "Punch" is what you do them. And the beatings will continue until morale improves! <grin>

 

[Great Ape]

My girlfriend has a ''small, pointed punch'', and it really doesn't hurt at ''awl''... :doh:

 

[Day-mun]

An awl is pointed.  A punch, however fine, has a flat impact surface. If you can make an indentation that will give the drill bit somewhere to start without wandering, I think you'll be in good shape, and it won't matter what you call it.  :icon_thumright:

 

[TroubledTreble]

Aw man,  awl you guys already beat me to the punch...

... and now for something completely different.....